With its fusion of French and authentic Malenesian culture, New Caledonia is a food lover's heaven. Expect to see baguettes and gooey French cheeses sold alongside coconuts and yams at the local market – the tropical and Gallic blend of influences makes the island such a delicious mouth-watering destination for foodies.

The Bourail Fair

This is New Caledonia’s oldest and most popular agricultural and bush fair. Halfway between Noumea and the north of Grande Terre, the Bourail Fair, named after the town, is held each year in mid-August by the New Caledonian bush community. A popular event, not to be missed.

Nouméa, the capital city of New Caledonia is on the ocean. Several bays extend along the city, providing magnificent beaches and points of view. Besides its natural features, Nouméa also has very attractive cultural offerings for tourists who choose to visit there.

From Ouvéa to the Isle of Pines, passing through Lifou, Tiga and Maré, the five islands bordering the Mainland, Grande Terre to the East are yet more gems to discover. From the blue hole of Hanawa at Ouvéa to the Warrior’s Leap at Wakone on Maré, via the Jokin Cliffs at Lifou or the Oro Bay on the Isle of Pines, let yourself be amazed!

The West Coast of the mainland (Grande Terre) shows off a great variety of scenery from its northern tip down to the area surrounding Nouméa. Characterised by both large spaces favouring cattle farming and a lagoon of stunning beauty, the West Coast is also host to a rich cultural heritage.

The central mountain range of the Mainland (Grande Terre) is a natural boundary, overlooking the very different faces of the East and West Coasts. Exposed to strong winds and therefore more humid, the eastern coast offers scenery with sumptuous flora. With a population of largely Melanesian origin, the East Coast has also retained a particularly charming flavour of authenticity.

The Great South, comprising the Mont-Dore and Yaté municipalities, is the most symbolic region for New Caledonia’s three main colours: blue, green and red. From the rainforest to the mining lands there are a thousand shades of green, while the ocean offers a dazzling palette of blues. But if one colour dominates the Great South, it is the specific red of its ground.

The perfect picnic spot

Nouméa has a great mix of coastal and inland picnic spots to make the most of your holiday. Gather your basket of gourmet food and wine, add a fresh baguette and shake out the picnic blanket. With plenty of beautiful places to enjoy your picnic, you'll get to take in beautiful sights and culinary treats, all in one.

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Idyllic islands

While you can hire a boat or take one of the boat tours, an easy option is to take a water taxi out to Duck Island (L’île aux Canards). Just a very short distance from Anse Vata, the island is a favourite location for picnics and water sports, such as windsurfing. You can hire deck chairs and snorkel gear to explore and swim off lunch.

Tropical beaches

The many beaches around Nouméa make great spots to soak in the tropical atmosphere. To venture beyond the popular Anse Vata and Baie des Citrons, take the local bus or a taxi to Kuendu Beach in Nouville. A favourite with the locals, it’s a popular spot for picnics and a game of pétanque (bowling) on the sand.

Natural settings

For a more natural setting, the wonderful botanical gardens at the Zoological and Forest Park are just a short drive or stop by bus. Perched on the heights of Montravel, the Park has magnificent views and a pleasant walking track where you can see local plant and bird life.

Magnificent views

If you want views, then why not head to nearby Ouen Toro, the peak adjacent to Anse Vata that offers sprawling views across Nouméa and out to the islands. Or if you have more time to spare, take an excursion south to Mont Dore, New Caledonia’s highest peak at 800 metres high with outstanding views of Nouméa’s lagoon.

Save yourself a trip to Tahiti and escape to the Escapade Island Resort – the closest overwater bungalows to Australia! Spend 3 nights on a beautiful island surrounded by a marine reserve offering abundant fish life and 11 resident turtles, before to spend 4 nights at the luxurious Hilton Noumea.